Australian Government Disability Policy, Programs and Legislation

The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which aims to ensure that persons with disabilities enjoy human rights on an equal basis with others, was ratified by Australia in 2007, and entered into force in Australia in 2008. In November 2009 the Prime Minister announced the development of a National Disability Strategy through the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) as a central mechanism for implementation of CRPD in Australia; along with an inquiry into the feasibility of a National Disability Insurance Scheme (or similar scheme) as part of this Strategy.

Four million people in Australia (18.5%) report having a disability, according to the results of the most recent national Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers (SDAC).

This Survey was conducted in 2009, by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). For the purposes of SDAC, disability is defined as any limitation, restriction or impairment which restricts everyday activities and has lasted or is likely to last for at least six months. The Australian Government supports people with disabilities through a range of programs,services and benefits and payments. Further support is provided through grants and funding for organisations delivering services for people with disabilities.

This section provides information about, and links to key Australian Government disability policy, programs and legislation, including the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1992.